Bathrooms: a perfectly partitioned ensuite

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Rare in New York apartments, this home has a large ensuite bathroom that feels both spacious and private. Here, New York artist Anthony Goicolea tells why this bathroom designed by Janet Cross is so successful.

Each section of the bathroom flows into the other, but partitions also allow for privacy. Photograph by Simon Devitt.

HOME A big bathroom was part of your brief for the house. Why so?Anthony Goicolea I love the bathroom. It’s the only room in the house where you can shut the door and people respect your privacy. I feel I can unwind and relax in the tub or shower – it’s very calming. In New York a large bathroom is a luxury.

HOME Which design elements enhance this feeling of calm?Anthony Goicolea It’s where I start my day, so I wanted the bathroom to be airy and light. The shower is an open walk-in shower with a large skylight overhead. It feels great to shower with the morning light streaming in.

HOME What are the features that have been most successful?Anthony Goicolea I love the open flow. Nothing is closed off, but there’s still a sense of privacy. The showers are on the other side of the wall from the sinks, so they feel separate, even though they’re not. The toilet is separated by a partition so that you don’t see it if you’re soaking in the tub, showering or using the sink.

I’ve always wanted a bathroom large enough to put a daybed in – that’s why I created a retractable wall that opens up into the master bedroom. I didn’t have quite enough space in which to comfortably place a daybed, so opening up the bathroom to the bedroom was the next best thing. After a long hot bath, it’s nice to lay down for a few minutes and cool off.